Funding for PGCE after previously studying multiple degrees

PaulG2024

I already hold degrees in BSc Chemistry and integrated Masters in Pharmacy from 1991 and 2007. I started a BSc Operating Department Practice in September 2025 and got full SFE financial support for fees and maintenance loan because it was an exception degree. I have now decided that course/career was not for me and I am withdrawing. My question is can I get SFE funding for a PGCE (want to train as a chemistry teacher starting September 2026) even though I hold degrees and have a possible overpayment of loans as I withdrew early from my ODP degree. Will this overpayment just be deducted against a future PGCE award and I will not be required to pay SFE anything back? Reason I ask is I need SFE funding towards the PGCE as then I will also receive the bursary on offer studying to be a chemistry teacher. Many thanks.

Reply 1

Stephen SLC

Official Rep

Hi there, for to assist you with your query please answer the following questions:

The university you want to apply to?
The exact course title?
Is this a Full Time or Part Time course?
How many years is the new course in total?
When are you planning to start your studies?

Thank you, Stephen.

Reply 2

PaulG2024

Hello Stephen
Looking to do a PGCE leading to QTS with several different providers. I do not hold QTS currently but as stated above hold previous BSc and MPharm integrated Masters already. I think PGCE is an exceptions course yes? So full funding from SFE is available? yes?

All the courses start September 2026 for 1 year in duration and are full time. The four different providers i am considering are as follows:

North Worcestershire Teacher Training Hub Chemistry (2X8C) (Accredited by University of Worcester)

Birmingham Newman University Chemistry (2QGQ)

University of Worcester Chemistry (F2X1)

University of Birmingham Chemistry (F1X1)

Many thanks
Paul

Reply 3

Claire SFE

Official Rep

Original post

by PaulG2024

Hello Stephen
Looking to do a PGCE leading to QTS with several different providers. I do not hold QTS currently but as stated above hold previous BSc and MPharm integrated Masters already. I think PGCE is an exceptions course yes? So full funding from SFE is available? yes?
All the courses start September 2026 for 1 year in duration and are full time. The four different providers i am considering are as follows:
North Worcestershire Teacher Training Hub Chemistry (2X8C) (Accredited by University of Worcester)
Birmingham Newman University Chemistry (2QGQ)
University of Worcester Chemistry (F2X1)
University of Birmingham Chemistry (F1X1)
Many thanks
Paul

HI Paul,

PGCE ITT courses are exceptions as long as you don't already hold QTS. What academic year is the overpayment from? Are you currently repaying it at the moment?

Thanks,
Claire

Reply 4

PaulG2024

Actually had SFE get in touch and it turns out they are paying me! So no overpayment to pay back! So I take it I will get funding for the PGCE as I do not hold QTS. as I thought going by other posts on here I have read. Nice of you to confirm though Claire. I shall apply when funding applications open for September 2026. Many thanks.